A: Generally speaking, not as many as there will be in a few years. On the East Coast, they reached massive numbers a few years ago, although numbers have declined since. We probably won't reach our peak populations for several more years, although many things, such as the weather, could impact that.

Q: Why are they coming/what do they want?

A: They are an invasive species that arrived first in Pennsylvania in the mid to late 1990s. Invasive species usually arrive without the natural enemies that normally keep them under control, allowing them to increase rapidly in numbers.

Q: When do they start invading homes? Have you had other media calls yet during this current stink bug season?

A: They usually start invading homes when the weather starts getting cold. They are coming inside for a warm place to spend the winter. I have not heard much this year from other media outlets.

Q: How long will this last?

A: They will spend the entire winter in your house. They may become active on warm sunny days and move around inside. Otherwise they will just be hanging out.

Q: Should I call Orkin, use Raid, or are there chemical-free ways to deter/kill them?

A: Insecticides applied to the outside of the home can reduce the invasion but not eliminate it. You can do it yourself or hire someone to do it for you. You should not spray insecticides inside your home to try to kill them. There are some simple traps that are effective at catching them once they are inside your home.

Q: Are stink bugs one of those exotic/invasive Eurasian species, or are they beneficial native species?

A: These are invasives that came from the Far East, most likely China, Japan, or Taiwan. They are not beneficial but rather can be very severe pests of many crops.

Q: Why are they called stink bugs? Is it true that your vacuum cleaner will stink for months if you try to vacuum them up?

A: They are called stink bug because they release a defensive chemical that wards off potential predators because they stink. Yes, your vacuum will stink if you use it to collect them, but once you empty it or change the bag the smell will dissipate.

Q: If I have a stink bug infestation, does that mean I won't have a lady bug invasion? Have stink bugs out-competed lady bugs as home invaders?

A: I've heard that it could be the case, but it's too early to know if it actually will happen. I had more lady bugs last year than ever before so I'm not yet convinced. Either way I wouldn't celebrate. Most people don't want either of them in their home.